Karl Amadeus Hartmann
German composer of orchestral works
Born in 1905, this individual contributed significantly to the 20th-century music scene as a composer. His works often reflected his opposition to National Socialism and embraced an avant-garde musical language. He composed symphonies, operas, and chamber music, integrating traditional and modern elements. Several pieces premiered in post-war Germany and attracted attention for their emotional depth. A strong advocate for contemporary music, the individual founded a festival for new music in Germany, promoting the works of both established and emerging composers.
Composed the opera 'Simone' in 1945
Founded the 'Musik der Zeit' festival
Wrote the Symphony No. 2 in 1949
Other People Born on August 2nd
Irving Babbitt
American academic and literary critic
Born
August 2nd, 1865 160 years ago
Died
July 15th, 1933 92 years ago — 67 years old
An influential academic specializing in literary criticism, significant contributions included the establishment of the New Humanism movement, emphasizing a moral framework in literature and education. Authored several notable works, including "The New Humanism" and "Democracy and Leadership," which explored the relationship between literature, culture, and ethics. Served as a professor at Harvard University and was involved in the American Academy of Arts and Letters, promoting the humanities in education. Babbitt's thoughts shaped educational reforms and literary criticism in the early 20th century.
Continue ReadingJean-Baptiste du Casse
French admiral and buccaneer
Born
August 2nd, 1646 379 years ago
Died
June 25th, 1715 310 years ago — 68 years old
Born in 1646, the individual served as a prominent French admiral and buccaneer. His naval career included significant engagements in the Caribbean during the late 17th century. The individual played a crucial role in securing French naval interests and led several successful raids against Spanish territories. Notably, this admiral commanded French naval forces that captured key locations, contributing to the expansion of French colonial power in the region.
Continue ReadingJoe Hockey
Australian lawyer and Treasurer
Born
August 2nd, 1965 60 years ago
Served as the 38th Treasurer of Australia from 2014 to 2015. Elected to the House of Representatives in 1996 as a member of the Liberal Party. Held the position of Minister for Financial Services and Regulation from 2001 to 2004. Played a key role in delivering the 2014 federal budget, which aimed to address Australia's budget deficit and promote economic growth. Stepped down from the Treasury role in 2015 and continued his career in various international roles.
Continue ReadingPer Westerberg
Swedish Politician, Speaker of Parliament
Born
August 2nd, 1951 74 years ago
A Swedish businessman and politician served as the Speaker of the Parliament of Sweden from 2006 to 2010. Westerberg held various positions within the Moderate Party and participated actively in legislative processes. His tenure as Speaker focused on promoting parliamentary procedures and leading sessions in the Riksdag, Sweden's national legislature. Prior to this role, he held positions in the Swedish government, contributing to policy discussions and legislative initiatives. Westerberg was also known for his business background, which included involvement in social and economic issues.
Continue ReadingSnoo Wilson
Playwright and screenwriter
Born
August 2nd, 1948 77 years ago
Died
July 3rd, 2013 12 years ago — 64 years old
An English playwright and screenwriter, contributions spanned theater and film, significantly influencing contemporary British drama. Works included 'The Taming of the Shrew' and 'The Corn is Green,' alongside creating original pieces celebrated for their wit and relevance. Associated with the Royal Court Theatre and other prestigious venues, established a reputation for innovative narratives that engaged with social issues. Collaborated with various theater companies and contributed to radio plays and television scripts, demonstrating versatility in writing across multiple mediums.
Continue ReadingVidya Charan Shukla
Indian politician and Minister of External Affairs
Born
August 2nd, 1929 96 years ago
Died
June 11th, 2013 12 years ago — 83 years old
Served as an influential Indian politician for several decades. Held the position of Minister of External Affairs in the government of India. Played a key role in shaping foreign policy during critical periods, including the non-alignment movement. Participated actively in various national and state-level political activities, influencing legislative processes.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 5th
Glenn L. Martin
Aviation Pioneer and Company Founder
Born
January 17th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1955 70 years ago — 69 years old
An aviation pioneer and businessman established the Glenn L. Martin Company, contributing significantly to the development of aircraft technology. The company became a major manufacturer of military aircraft during World War II and played a significant role in aviation history. Innovations included the design of the Martin Bomber and other notable aircraft. Eventually, the company merged with Lockheed Corporation in 1961. His efforts in the aviation industry helped shape commercial and military aviation.
Continue ReadingLouis Dewis
Belgian-French painter of landscapes
Born
November 1st, 1872 153 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1946 79 years ago — 74 years old
Active during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, this painter specialized in landscapes, particularly those showcasing rural scenes in Belgium and France. The artist displayed an affinity for natural light and expressive color palettes, which became hallmarks of his work. Participated in numerous exhibitions, gaining recognition for the vibrant depiction of nature. The career included both solo and group exhibitions in Paris and Brussels. Contributions to the art scene during this period emphasized the beauty of everyday life and the changing seasons within landscapes.
Continue ReadingFred Clark
American actor in film and television
Born
1914 111 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1968 57 years ago — 54 years old
An American actor worked extensively in film and television. Gained recognition for roles in various productions during the mid-20th century. Featured in several notable films and television shows, contributing to the entertainment industry for decades. Known for distinctive performances that showcased versatility across different genres.
Continue ReadingDavid Bronstein
Chess Player and Theoretician
Born
February 19th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
December 5th, 2006 19 years ago — 82 years old
A prominent chess player and theoretician, achievements include challenging for the World Chess Championship in 1951 against Mikhail Botvinnik. Contributed extensively to chess theory and authored numerous chess books. Helped advance the understanding of opening strategies and endgame techniques within the chess community. His innovative approaches influenced many players and analysts in the field.
Continue ReadingGaspard Bauhin
Swiss botanist and author of Pinax.
Born
January 17th, 1560 465 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1624 401 years ago — 64 years old
Significant contributions to botanical nomenclature and classification took place, establishing the basis for modern taxonomy. Published "Pinax Theatri Botanici," which listed more than 6,000 plants and proposed a systematic way to classify them. Acted as a professor of medicine at the University of Basel, where studies in botany and medicinal plants flourished. Developed extensive illustrations and descriptions of plants, influencing later naturalists and botanists.
Continue ReadingPrincess Alice of Battenberg
British royal and humanitarian.
Born
February 25th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1969 56 years ago — 84 years old
Born in 1885, a member of the British royal family, engaged in numerous charitable activities throughout life. Served as a nurse during World War I and supported various causes, including her work with the Red Cross. Established the Alice Home for needy children in Germany and contributed to the welfare of the community during tumultuous times. Worked tirelessly to provide assistance in regions affected by war. Became known for emphasize on compassion and care in her public endeavors. Passed away in 1969.
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